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Police to wield greater power over violence orders

The Attorney General Greg Smith says the new police powers will make it safer for victims of domestic violence.

Police will soon have the power to bypass the courts and issue 'on the spot' apprehended domestic violence orders (ADVO).

It is a move being adopted by the State Government on the recommendations of an Upper House inquiry.

The Attorney General Greg Smith says it will make it a lot safer for victims.

"This is a very important change because it gives more protection to women who are generally the victims."

Under the new system, police ranked as sergeant or above can make the decision to issue an ADVO without applying to a magistrate.

Mr Smith says concerns about the system or police having too much power are unfounded as the bail system works well.

"That doesn't appear to have been abused at all and this is a similar power that's been given to senior police," he said.

"They take their responsibility seriously, they keep records and it's working well and I think this is a very important change because it gives more protection for women who are generally the victims."

Co-founder of the NSW Domestic Violence Community Coalition Joy Goodsell has welcomed the move.

"I think it's going to make a lot of women and children safer so I think that it's a good thing," she said.

Legislation to enable the change is yet to be introduced into parliament.